Mon Dec 15 20:50:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text:

Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, the Heisman Trophy runner-up, faced criticism for a disrespectful Instagram post following his loss to Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza. Pavia’s initial post, which included a thumbs-down emoji and the caption “F-All THE VOTERS, BUT…..FAMILY FOR LIFE,” was perceived as a sour reaction to the outcome. Pavia later apologized, acknowledging his emotional outburst and expressing respect for the voters and the selection process. He also congratulated Mendoza, highlighting his accomplishments. Pavia had a stellar season, throwing for 3,192 yards and 27 touchdowns and rushing for 826 yards and 9 touchdowns, leading Vanderbilt to a 10-2 record. Mendoza had a strong season for Indiana leading them to their first number one ranking while throwing for 2,980 yards and 33 touchdowns, leading Indiana to their first No. 1 ranking. Pavia and Vanderbilt will face Iowa in the ReliaQuest Bowl.

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Pavia Apologizes for Heisman Trophy Loss Reaction; Newton and Smith Weigh In

NEW YORK, NY – Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia has issued an apology after a social media post expressing his frustration at losing the Heisman Trophy to Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza drew widespread criticism. The now-deleted Instagram story, posted shortly after the Heisman ceremony, featured a thumbs-down emoji and the caption “F-All THE VOTERS, BUT…..FAMILY FOR LIFE.”

The post quickly sparked backlash, with prominent sports figures like Cam Newton and Stephen A. Smith reportedly weighing in on Pavia’s conduct. On Sunday, Pavia addressed the controversy with a statement posted on X.

“Being a part of the Heisman ceremony last night as a finalist was such an honor,” Pavia wrote. “As a competitor, just like in everything I do I wanted to win. To be so close to my dream and come up short was painful. I didn’t handle those emotions well at all and did not represent myself the way I wanted to. I have much love and respect for the Heisman voters and the selection process, and I apologize for being disrespectful. It was a mistake, and I am sorry.”

Pavia, who transferred from New Mexico State, had a standout season, leading Vanderbilt to a 10-2 record with 3,192 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and 826 rushing yards with 9 touchdowns. However, it wasn’t enough to secure the coveted Heisman, which went to Mendoza, who led Indiana to their first number one ranking, who threw for 2,980 yards and an FBS-leading 33 touchdowns.

“Fernando Mendoza is an elite competitor and a deserving winner of the award,” Pavia stated in his apology. “I have nothing but respect for his accomplishments.”

Pavia and No. 14 Vanderbilt are set to face No. 23 Iowa in the ReliaQuest Bowl on December 31st. He concluded his statement by expressing his eagerness to compete with his team.

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